The Rest Is History
Goalhanger
Take a deep dive into History’s biggest moments with Tom Holland & Dominic Sandbrook.
Explore the stories of History’s most brutal rulers, deadly battles, and world-changing events. From the rise and fall of the Roman Empire, the Nazi conquest of Europe, and Hitler’s evil master plan for world domination, to the French Revolution, the sinking of the Titanic, or the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, Tom and Dominic bring the past to life with gripping storytelling and expert analysis, as they unpack the high-drama moments that shaped our world.
Join The Rest Is History Club: Unlock the full experience of the show – with exclusive bonus episodes, ad-free listening, early access to every series and live show tickets, a members-only newsletter, discounted books from the show, and access to our private Discord chatroom. Sign up directly at therestishistory.com.
For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com.
Explore the stories of History’s most brutal rulers, deadly battles, and world-changing events. From the rise and fall of the Roman Empire, the Nazi conquest of Europe, and Hitler’s evil master plan for world domination, to the French Revolution, the sinking of the Titanic, or the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, Tom and Dominic bring the past to life with gripping storytelling and expert analysis, as they unpack the high-drama moments that shaped our world.
Join The Rest Is History Club: Unlock the full experience of the show – with exclusive bonus episodes, ad-free listening, early access to every series and live show tickets, a members-only newsletter, discounted books from the show, and access to our private Discord chatroom. Sign up directly at therestishistory.com.
For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jul 19, 2021 • 39min
76. Statues: Trafalgar Square
Join Tom and Dominic on a historical walking tour of Trafalgar Square, where they uncover the intriguing stories behind its famous statues. They tackle the cultural significance of figures like Nelson and Charles I, while also diving into the debates surrounding public monuments and societal values. With humor, they discuss the extravagant breakfast of the Duke of Wellington and the complexities of memorializing historical figures. The conversation navigates the intersection of history and modern perspectives, making for an enlightening and entertaining exploration.
65 snips
Jul 15, 2021 • 1h 3min
75. The East India Company
William Dalrymple, a renowned historian specializing in Indian and British history, joins the discussion to unravel the intriguing tale of the East India Company. He explores how a mere handful of corrupt merchants expanded a global empire from London, delving into their rise after the pivotal Battle of Plassey. Dalrymple sheds light on the transformation from a trading entity to a ruling power, highlighting the consequences of their exploitation on India and how their decline set the stage for burgeoning anti-colonial movements.
43 snips
Jul 12, 2021 • 55min
74. The Six Wives of Henry VIII
Delve into the dramatic lives of Henry VIII's six wives, each wielding influence in their tumultuous marriages. From Anne Boleyn’s pivotal role in the Reformation to Catherine of Aragon’s resilience, their stories reveal intense political and personal struggles. Laugh along as the hosts whimsically debate which queen would thrive on a modern reality show. Explore the intriguing dynamics between the wives, their cultural impact, and the tragic fate of characters like Catherine Howard in this engaging blend of history and humor.
11 snips
Jul 9, 2021 • 1h 2min
73. England v Italy
The podcast dives into England's historical and cultural rivalry with Italy, tracing influences from the Roman era to modern times. It recounts a thrilling football clash, weaving in vibrant national pride and dramatic sporting moments. The discussion broadens to explore the Grand Tour's impact on British culture, including cuisine and fashion. Notably, it highlights the intertwined legacies of figures like Garibaldi and the evolution of attitudes during pivotal historical events. Humor and reflections on masculinity enrich the cultural tapestry shared.
39 snips
Jul 8, 2021 • 59min
72. The Vietnam War
Join Andrew Preston, a Cambridge University Professor of American History, as he discusses the Vietnam War's complex legacy. They explore how the war divided America, shedding light on Eugene McCarthy's presidential campaign and the anti-war movement. Preston emphasizes the war's roots in colonialism and contrasts U.S. and Vietnamese perspectives. The moral ramifications of military actions are examined, along with the transformative impact of media on public perception, culminating in a lively comparison of 'The Deer Hunter' and 'Apocalypse Now'.
11 snips
Jul 6, 2021 • 60min
71. England v Denmark
In a lively discussion, the hosts delve into the fascinating Anglo-Danish history, from Viking invasions to royal entanglements. They explore peculiar events like the siege of Wilton and the tumultuous marriage of James VI and Anne of Denmark. Listeners learn about the cultural legacies that shaped both nations, including the quirky role of royal dogs. With insights on historical battles and modern parallels, the conversation balances depth with humor, all while reflecting on the enduring ties between England and Denmark.
Jul 5, 2021 • 46min
70. Children’s History
Discover the challenges of writing history books for kids, focusing on engaging storytelling that captures their interest. Explore how authors tackle sensitive topics like World War II and the Holocaust while keeping narratives relatable. Dive into reflections on the historical context of violence among young boys and the vital role of support systems in mental health. The discussion highlights the balance between appealing tales and the serious nature of historical facts, making learning about the past both engaging and educational.
8 snips
Jul 2, 2021 • 43min
69. England v Ukraine
In a lively discussion, the hosts delve into the rich historical ties between England and Ukraine, touching on key moments like the Crimea and Kievan Rus. They humorously explore the unexpected success of the England football team during Euro 2020 while linking sporting rivalries to national identities. With anecdotes about Florence Nightingale and the chaotic Charge of the Light Brigade, they blend history with football, offering playful predictions for the upcoming match. Their lighthearted banter adds an entertaining spin to serious historical themes.
24 snips
Jul 1, 2021 • 55min
68. The British Empire
Sathnam Sanghera, a journalist and author of "Empireland," joins the conversation to unpack the multifaceted legacy of the British Empire. He navigates the complexities of its formation and the varied historical perspectives that shape today's understanding. The episode dives into the identities of Sikhs within the Empire, addressing themes of race and moral dilemmas faced by colonizers. Sanghera also discusses the challenges of teaching imperial history, advocating for nuanced dialogue over polarized debates to foster a more inclusive narrative.
51 snips
Jun 28, 2021 • 56min
67. Anglo-German Relations
Dive into the amusingly complex history between England and Germany as the hosts explore their historical sporting rivalry. From medieval ties to modern football, they highlight cultural quirks and humor. Learn how perceptions have shifted through significant events, nationalistic sentiments, and unforgettable figures. The discussion also addresses the profound impacts of earlier conflicts, all while maintaining a light-hearted tone. Expect witty anecdotes and insightful commentary on how past interactions continue to influence the present.
